July is UV Awareness Month!

Did you know that July is UV Awareness Month from the American Academy of Dermatology Association? When it comes to skin health, UV rays play a huge role. UV, ultraviolet light, is responsible for the formation of skin cancer, hyperpigmentation (such as sun spots), and the destruction of our elastin and collagen. But what exactly is UV light and where does it come from?

Ultraviolet radiation comes from the sun and is actually right outside of the visible light spectrum that is visible to humans. When it comes to the skin, we focus mostly on these two kinds of UV rays; UV-A and UV-B. Think of UV-A as the Aging rays and UV-B as the Burning rays. Both can burn you, but they differ a tiny bit. 

UV-A radiation has a longer wavelength and will age you the most. UV-A penetrates deeper into the dermis layer (middle layer of the skin) and wreaks havoc on collagen and elastin. These two proteins support the skin and give structure. When it gets destroyed, our skin develops a loss of firmness, fine lines, and wrinkles. UV-B radiation only reaches the epidermis (outer most layer of the skin), and is responsible for most sunburns. Low exposure can give people a nice tan, but a tan is the first sign that a burn is on the way. More exposure will lead to a true sunburn. 

So, it seems like a sun burn the worst-case scenario, right?? NO! Not at all…

UV radiation can cause damage to the DNA in our skin cells. Damaged DNA is what causes skin cancer that will have to be treated surgically. Some skin cancers are very easily treated, while others can be very aggressive and spread to other parts of the body. Aesthetically, sun damage can create dark spots and stubborn hyperpigmentation. Treatment for these conditions range from potent medical grade skincare, like Roseville Dermatology’s Advanced Hyperpigmentation cream, Discoloration Defense from SkinCeuticals, Obagi Nu-Derm System, and leading all the way to invasive laser treatments.

In conclusion, UV rays are the skin’s number one enemy. But there is amazing news – protecting ourselves is as easy as ever! Using a trusted mineral sunscreen of SPF 50 daily is the number one measure we can take to prevent all the things above. Our favorite is brand is Colorescience! Their products contain 100% mineral SPF and come in a wide rage of formulations from tinted to totally clear. The next step is wearing protective clothing when going outside, and reapplying your sunscreen every two hours! Do yourself a favor and protect yourself!